The Rally Italia Sardegna, known for its challenging gravel tracks, is set to introduce an all-new format that promises to provide an exciting and intense experience for both drivers and spectators. Organizers have unveiled a condensed itinerary that will see the entire rally completed within just 48 hours. With 16 competitive stages covering a total distance of 266.48 kilometers, this new format is expected to bring a fresh and exhilarating dimension to the event.
The introduction of this new format is in line with the upcoming FIA 2025 guidelines, which have yet to be officially released. The decision to condense the rally into a shorter timeframe has been driven by demands from within the World Rally Championship (WRC) to create more compact events. This proposal is part of a package of rule changes that the championship plans to implement in the future. In previous years, rally distances have exceeded 300 kilometers, but the new format aims to deliver a more intense and viewer-friendly experience.
This year, the Rally Italia Sardegna will return to the picturesque city of Alghero, which last hosted the event in 2022. The service park will be set up in the same location as it was two years ago, adding a sense of familiarity for both teams and spectators. This charming coastal city provides the perfect backdrop for the rally, with its stunning landscapes and challenging terrain.
The rally will kick off with the shakedown on Friday morning, allowing drivers to get a feel for the gravel tracks and make any necessary adjustments to their vehicles. The first of four stages will commence at 1:30pm local time, followed by two loops of two stages in the afternoon. An end-of-day service will provide teams with the opportunity to fine-tune their cars and address any issues before the next day’s action.
Saturday will feature eight stages, with a midday tire-fitting zone splitting the day in half. Competitors will tackle two passes of four stages, displaying their skills and agility on the challenging Sardinian terrain. At the end of the day, they will return to Alghero for another service session, ensuring their vehicles are in optimal condition for the final leg of the rally.
Sunday’s leg will comprise of four stages, culminating in a thrilling finale at 1:15pm local time. Drivers will push themselves to the limit, vying for the top spots and battling it out until the very end. The compact nature of the rally means that every second will count, heightening the competition and adding an extra layer of excitement for spectators.
This format change is just the beginning of what could be a new era for WRC events, as the sport continues to evolve. It comes at a time of change within the championship, with the recent introduction of a new points-scoring system at the season opener in Monte Carlo. As the Rally Italia Sardegna embraces this innovative format, it sets the stage for the potential transformation of other rallies in the future.
The Rally Italia Sardegna is poised to deliver a thrilling and intense rally experience with its new compact format. By adhering to the upcoming FIA 2025 guidelines, the organizers have set a precedent for future rallies to become more condensed and viewer-friendly. With its breathtaking stages and the captivating city of Alghero as a backdrop, this rally promises to be a standout event on the WRC calendar. Get ready for high-speed action, intense competition, and a whole new level of excitement in the world of rallying.
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